Mask
Tanzania, Holoholo
sold
EUR 3,500
Provenance
Marc L. Felix, Brussels, BelgiumSize
H: 24,5 cm
H: 9.6 inch
Description
wood, brown patina, remains of kaolin, of oval form, slightly asymmetrical facial features and incised scarification marks, pierced around the rim, small missing parts through insect caused damage, metal socle;
this mask was found near Lake Tanganyika close to Kalemie and it was used by roving musicians and dancers at the funeral of a Holoholo elder. Stylistically it has some Goma in it, but the scarifications are also found on Tabwa masks, the use of kaolin is unusual and could be a Bembe influence. A mysterious pierce.